Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Apparently I missed de-lurk day last month, but I thought I'd call out of you lurkers out of the woodwork to come and leave a comment. Commenting is fun! 3 out of 5 dentists recommend it. I'm pretty sure it cures scurvy.

So...

Where are you from? Anything on your mind? Who is Jason going to choose? Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette?How's the weather?I know, right?

And hey, if you comment here you might even be featured in the San Francisco Chronicle like Vegas Linda Lou.

Hi! I’m Linda Lou out here in Las Vegas. Recently I decided to self-publish “Bastard Husband: A Love Story.” It’s an autobiographical account of my first year alone in Las Vegas following a mid-life divorce and my transition from misery and bitterness to trying stand-up comedy for the first time.

I was a lurker for well over a year. About two weeks ago, I started commenting, and I’m glad I did! A reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle saw what I wrote here and contacted me. Yesterday this article hit the stands. http://tinyurl.com/c6j8no

Lurkers, don’t be afraid to comment. We can’t just write—we have to get ourselves out there!

1) I'm from Wisconsin by way of Texas. 2) Currently, my mind is on my bacon, steak, and artichoke stir fry I had for lunch. 3 and 4) I don't know who Jason and Jillian are (I know, I know, shameshame). 5) The weather is cold, but it shouldn't start snowing till tonight. 6) You are SO right. *mimes pistols with her hands and winks*

I'm a developmental editor (and line editor, if I must) from Wisconsin, but I'm working out of Montreal for the time being.

I work freelance for writers who are aspiring to self-publish (or aspiring to not lose a potential agent because they don't know how to use a semicolon). Although it isn't really my job, most authors really appreciate a rundown of the publishing industry and what to expect... which is why I'm following your blog. Thanks for all the insight!

I live in Connecticut now, by way of Milwaukee, Japan, Iowa and Missouri. Tagging along on with my wife on her work assignments takes me to Vietnam for extended periods sometimes. I teach freshman comp and am a freelance copywriter. Former journalist. Former nonprofit project manager. The part-time teaching and freelancing allow me the flexibility to work on a novel, two years in progress now and nearing the end. (journaling it at www.workingonanovel.com).

Not really a reality TV show watcher. I'm missing The Closer since the season finale was the other day. I'm addicted to my DVR.

The name is JJ. I am a Los Angeles transplant working as an intern at Writers House in New York. My previous job in finance was a casualty of the economic times so I took the opportunity to move into an (equally imploding?) field. I'm also an aspiring writer who just recently finished an alternate-universe/steampunk-y YA novel and an avid skydiver who likes to blog about jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, knitting, and diving through the slush. (I LOVE slush. I love the trainwrecks. Oh how they make my day.)

The weather SUCKS here in New York, especially for a southern Californian native such as myself. It sucks for two reasons: it hurts to stand outside for more than five seconds and it's too cold to go skydiving. I hate winter.

(On a side note, I'm not a true lurker as I've commented before. I've been reading your blog long before I made the career move toward publishing. I too, am sick of male ennui novels. However, rhetorical questions in a query do not bother me.)

Thanks for the invitation, Nathan: it's a good opportunity to thank you for all the great information and perspectives you post. Though represented elsewhere, I'm still a greenhorn about every non-writing-the-novel part of the industry and your friendly blog is a welcome stop on my very short list of morning blog crawls.

Sadly, this Minnesotan can't comment on your recent (unhealthy) television obsessions...but she owes you big time for introducing her to The Wire. Just finished the second season via Netflix and am most def impressed with the deft portraits of complicated individuals being pulled by a million different motivations into sometimes unpredictable courses of action. Boggle.

Hi, I'm Neil from New York. When I watch the Bachelor, I mostly think about how torturous it would be for me to sit there all night talking to these women, even if they are supposedly "amazing." Besides, I do not like hot tubs at all!

I find this blog very informative, a little glimpse of what is going on behind the scenes.

One note. You may know publishing inside out, but your advertising trivia is a bit iffy -- the phrase is "four out of FIVE dentists!"

Hey, never commented before. Figured I'd better follow the masses. Jason better choose Melissa or else I'll never watch the show again (course I've made this vow before--I actually stuck to it for three seasons). If Jillian is the new Bachelorette maybe I'll consider modifying the previous vow. The weather is FABULOUS in Colorado. I try to not make a habit out of lurking but your blog is pretty awesome.

My name is Melony (M.G.) Marsh and I now live in the Napa Valley area of California, but was born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska.

My mind is full of thoughts and useless information - so do you really want to know what I am thinking about?

And as far as Jason and Jillian go - who knows?? I don't watch the "Bachelor". I watch other shows like "United States of Tara"! Now here's a question for you - which personality is trying to take over her mind and life? I think Buck!

And as far as the weather goes - today sunny! But the rain was a welcomed gift for our drying up state.

And that's what I know! At lest for today.

So there - I blogged and came out of the "woodwork".

For those interested you can check out www.mgmarsh.com to read the first 5 pages of my self-published novel "Letters". *hint, hint*

Lurker and delusional newbie-commenter here. Hilary, to most folks.Originally from San Francisco, I’m a NorCal girl now trapped in SoCal. The only thing on my mind at the moment is selling my book. It has magic, love triangles, and adventure – Oh, my! Seriously, Nathan, just be my agent already. ;-)

About the “achingly earnest” Bachelor, he’ll choose the malleable Melissa. Um, and Jillian, who was my favorite, is long gone, my friend. What the heck is going on with DeAnna – is she coming back?

The weather in Dana Point is cloudy causing my ocean view to have a more grey-tinged hue… Maybe I should be a rapper like Joaquin Phoenix.

Hi! I found your blog via another agent's blog. But that was a while ago, so I can't remember which agent. I may have commented here before, too. I move around a lot and forget things very easily.

Nonetheless, I love your blog for the following two reasons:- great insight into the world of publishing in America- awesome sense of humour, keep it coming!

I'm from Brasil but born in U.S., lived in England and Middle East most of my adult life, and presently by some fluke I find myself in Kosovo.

Hence, the weather is not great. Very cold, though it's getting better.

On my mind is the fact that I'm tired of living in new places where I don't have any friends!

As for Jason and Jillian, I'm afraid American pop culture is sadly removed from my reality. Here, the pop culture highlight for me has been watching Brazilian soap operas with Albanian subtitles. I know, my life is odd.

Hi! I'm Beth Dolgner, a writer in Atlanta, GA. I write fantasy and paranormal/occult nonfiction. I stumbled on your blog when I started researching agents, since I will be looking for one soon. I always enjoy your insight, but I'm more of a lurker than a poster!

I posted a comment a couple of times but I think I still qualify as a lurker.

I'm Brigita from Slovenia (you get a cookie if you know where that is). I work as a translator and love to read your blog. Though all your Bachelorette, The Hills etc. references are pretty much lost on me. ;)

I'm from Gary, Indiana, and moved to Texas after being in the Washington, DC area for 11 years.

Currently on my mind is Nate the Great. I and my 5 yr old and 7 yr old sons are reading the series together.

I liked Jason last year and knew that the bachelorette was a fool to not choose him, but his behavior this season has really put me off and I've fallen off of watching him.

I'm waiting for the new bachelorette to start because it's more fun - or perhaps I'm bias. Any who, can't complain about the weather in Texas - after all, I was born in the mid-west and just left the east coast, so - the weather is always good.

I'm me, living in Quebec City or thereabouts. I have no TV. Keeps me focused on books. On my mind? Too many things to list, always running a mile a minute. Cold is all relative. I want spring so bad I'm willing to start appealing to deities. We'll see.

Well, I've commented before, but until recently all my posts were anonymous.

So, my name is Julie, and I'm a lurker.

*Smiles at the resounding "Welcome, Julie"*

I'm from Michigan, and the weather here is in the screwy mess of winter/spring/surprise-it's-winter-again.

I don't actually watch "The Bachelor", so I can't comment on the show.

What's on my mind? Trying to get inside the head of a 15 year old cheerleader so I can get to work. Music is helping, but not as much as I'd like since at this point I don't have a solidified playlist yet.

My teeth are okay, I don't have scurvy, but I am wondering if de-lurking will help me lose weight...

-- What's on my mind: I just won a manuscript critique with Stephen Barbara and I'm over the moon! Can't wait to learn whatever I can from him.

-- Even though Jason seems to really, really like Molly's eyes, I think he and Melissa are a better fit.

-- Jillian is so genuine and adorable, she'd make a fantastic Bachelorette.

-- It's actually a beautiful blue-sky day here in the South Bay, even though it said it was going to rain ... how is it in SF? Foggy per usual?

-- I totally have a friendly crush on you - your blog was the first literary agent blog I have ever read! You should compile all your brilliant posts into a book: Nathan Tells All: Musings on Query Letters, Publishing, and Reality TV. I know, right?

I'm Jinx aka Jinxie_G aka NL Gervasio (that's the real one) and I live in Phoenix where yes, it is very hot and I don't like it anymore. Actually, it's been nice lately. Hot will begin in April and unfortunately I will be moving in June. Ugh.

I lurk occasionally, comment occasionally, laugh a lot. I don't watch TV so I can't comment on your Bachelor stuff (please don't kill me), and sleep is on my mind because I haven't been to bed yet. I'm a bit nocturnal. Heading there now, though. Have a great day!

Hey, Nathan - I do have something on my mind. I queried you yesterday and quickly got back a rejection that started with the word "spam" in the Subject Line. Is that typical? As with any rejection, I didn't take it personally. It was just a bit weird and not at all what I'd expect from a class-act like yourself.

Sorry about that, our e-mail system has been adding "spam" automatically to the subject line for lots of e-mails lately, even if they most definitely are not spam. I try and delete it from the subject line when I'm responding, but some slip through.

Maybe now is the appropriate time to mention that I've been restraining myself from sending you a query written entirely in haiku. Such a move might be unprofessional, especially since this query would have to describe a book I'm currently reading, seeing as I haven't actually written one.

I think the most pressing Bachelor question is: When will the rest of Jason's mane join his hairline in the Great Beyond?

I'll delurk. I'm from suburban Seattle (by way of Iowa and Chicagoland), just a couple of exits away from the current Bachelor's home turf. I don't know him (beyond the shirtless photos accompanying a gushing story about his body/workout regimen in the Seattle Times), and I don't watch the show. I checked it out in its first incarnation, but I soon turned away for good because it makes me ill to see women catfighting over a man/ring -- and I'm horrified that they all seem to really think they're in love or that a real relationship might develop. Also, I don't watch because I'd likely start caring and get alarmingly hooked on it.

I'm a freelance writer-editor working in children's and educational publishing. Spent many years on the in-house editorial track. Currently finishing a nonfiction picture book series. I'm also writing several Language Arts-based lesson plans for publication this spring. Next book project is a graphic novel (biography). I have two completed middle-grade mystery-adventure manuscripts I need to revise and start submitting, one YA novel I've started outlining, and one dream project I am apparently too scared to genuinely attempt.

I am also from Phoenix, and am vaguely annoyed with everybody who is already saying "It's starting to get hot."March is the best time to be here, people! It's in the seventies and eighties and gorgeous. Let's not talk about it hitting a hundred until it does (usually late April). Go to the pool!That said, I got my very first rejection letter in the mail yesterday and am oddly excited about it. I haven't had TV since I was seven years old and am sadly out of the Bachelor loop. Sorry, Nathan.

From Missourah, as my grandmother embarrassingly says, currently live in obnoxiously sunny St. George, Utah. If you were one to read my blog you'd see frequent posts of me politely telling the sun to piss off. It's just too bright. (See how I multitask questions?)

The only thing on my mind right now is that this cable guy in my house smells like a moldy cigar and keeps looking in my closets. Hello! Young white female at home by herself...it alarms me.

I just love this blog - not only because Nathan's postings are a great mix of informative and interesting but also because of the comments it draws. Those comments are a nice reminder I'm not alone in writing hell.

I'm a Portlander, used to gloom and gray and spend most of my time trying to make my work not suck.

I'm Vicky, mostly a lurker and/or anon. Whipping off my mask to offer my opinion on a matter of grave import. In the most shocking rose ceremony yet ... er, to come.... Well, here's the conspiracy theory according to Reality Steve: Jason picks Melissa, dumps her after the show, AND hooks up with Molly. For those in need of more procrastination routes, here's the link: http://tinyurl.com/d7gmnr

hiya- I'm Mur Lafferty, from Durham, NC. I just got done reading on my kindle (and I agree with you that little dots don't give me a sense of how far I am in the book) and am about to edit a podcast. I'm a bit of a new media enthusiast.

I've vowed not to watch reality TV till "Who Wants To Be A Superhero?" comes back.

Hey--I'm in Brooklyn, NY, where I do freelance for a morning radio show prep service (which pays for me to stay at home with my son) as well as write historical romance and women's fiction (not so much pay, feh). I only watch Top Chef for my reality TV, so I dunno anything about J&J. And the weather is cold. And has been cold for the past 217 years.

Hi Nathan!Just found your blog last week so I don't know if that qualifies me as a lurker or not. I'm from Philadelphia but currently live in South Crack, er...I mean South Carolina. What's on my mind?? Mostly food...I'm on a diet...grr. I don't watch the bachelor.

I love your blog! It's very informative. Thanks so much for all the information on how to properly format a query an agent. Very helpful.

Over here in sunny New Zealand, it's sunny. How cool is that? Actually, it's quite cool, because there's a southerly blowing off Antarctica, and we're thinking about lighting the fire. I love summer.

Like a few others here, this was the first publishing industry blog I found when I started my hunt for an agent. It's been a great starting point, and has led me to the fantastic network that the internet really is. Thanks for all the brilliant links!

What's on my mind? Writing queries, carrying on with a new book I'm writing, and hanging on to the precious hour I've carved out every morning for writing without the distractions of phone calls, work, and family. Yeah, there's all that stuff too.

Loreth from Whistler, B.C., a small ski resort in the Coast Mountains (home of next winter Olympics)Blizzarding here today. I have no clue about the bachelor, sorry. Allergic to the the show. However, I am addicted to this blog :)

Congrats to Vegas Linda O'Connor! I'm definitely going to get me a copy of Bastard Husband.

Mostly I lurk--but I comment sometimes, when the program will let me. I live on CA's Central Coast. I'm one of those unfortunates who published two novels with a dying indie publisher to good reviews and dismal sales (hard to sell books that have no distribution), so I'm a pariah in the publishing biz. But I'm still blindly trying to get some brave agent to rep my new work.

But it has no vampires or werewolves. Not even a small troll. So am I kidding myself?

I read a lot of publishing blogs and I've been following Nathan pretty much since the beginning. I used to be a faithful Snarkling.

Nathan doesn't snark as well as the lamented Miss S, but he's got some wise things to say (in spite of his fondess for bad reality TV.) Thanks Mr. B.

My hands are shaking as I write this. I know wimp.. more like shy girl. I lurk like Dave Letterman's departed stalker around this site.

Don't watch any of your much beloved reality shows, but I do love me some Housewives of OC, NY, and the delightfully craaazy Atlanta ladies.

I'm from the land of the tropical Florida and I feel like a wimp carrying on about our 50 degree weather. Will it ever warm up? I'm freezing!

And now I'm going to have to go Google scurvy's symptoms. I'm such a hypochondriac, the word is mentioned, I know I've got it.

On my mind-the reason for my hand tremble. I write a little blog and in the imperfect order of the universe, I wrote about you, Nate the Great, last night. If you go there, please disregard any errors, I'm usually better than that, but I was delighting in the snark of the OC housewives reunion. (I figured I could watch the Prez today online.) laundryhurtsmyfeelings.com, if you want to take a peek.

Nathan - I'm Dave from St Augustine Florida where it will be in the high 70s tomorrow. Have followed your blog for about 2 years & I've honestly learned more here than anywhere else on the net or in the 'how to' books. I don't watch much TV. My 1st YA was published a few months ago & I've made friends with 2 of your awesome clients. Nothing on my mind. I have perfect teeth. Life is good & you are da man professor Bransford (& a good guy). I'll go back to lurking now. Thanks.

Where are you from? NCAnything on your mind? Not that I care to share--mostly worried about my kids==and you guys don't want to hear about them.Who is Jason going to choose? Don't know--I don't watchWill Jillian be the new Bachelorette? See aboveHow's the weather? Beautiful, warm and sunnyI know, right? Yeah.

I'm so close to finishing and then starting the query process! Yeah! Thanks for your blog--so informative

I'm from Colorado Springs and the weather absolutely rocks here. Seriously...we've got miles of blue sky and I'll be out hiking in shorts and tee this afternoon.

The thing we're all wondering: Does Jason have sex with all these women? I don't think I'd like him to be with one woman one night and me the next, even if it is in beautiful New Zealand (not to mention that I'm happily married, but you know what I mean).

Went to signing of HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET last night...the author was adorable and intelligent, and his agent (Kristin Nelson) was there, too, and she was also great.

Hi! I'm Jill and lurk in several corners of the internet from just west of Portland. Just finished lunch at work and am thinking I should be writing instead of surfing. Rationalizing it with the thought that finished blog surfing during lunch means I can write during my afternoon break. Sorry, don't watch the Bachelor, but I enjoy reading others' posts about it. Weather here is grey and almost warm enough for a light coat.

Who I am:I am from Germany and while following this blog I "grew" the courage to query several US agents.I am a published but not yet well known writer and I am a triple Mum with a disabled daughter.

Whats on my mind:One thing I have been wondering is if agents in the US will be put off if I tell them that I am German. After all, English is not my native language (I bet there are a few people like me out there with the same thoughts)

and all the rest:couldn't someone invent 36 or 48 hour days and add-on-tentacles for mothers? I'd be grateful for No-Sleep-Needed-Pills, too, if they come without adverse effects.

I'm a Nathan Bransford lurkette from Michigan who doesn't want to chance scurvy. One can never be too vigilant.

I love your blog, but you really need to start watching what I'M watching so's we can be on the same page. I figured it could never get any better than Trista and Ryan so I stopped watching The Bachelor. Let's hear it for The Amazing Race, American Idol, and The Apprentice! (Apparently, I only watch shows beginning with A. Ooh, except for The Office.) I do find time to write occasionally.

Hi! I live in Minneapolis (by choice even, as I was raised in the California Wine Country). Like a few other lurkers, my novel is on my mind. I was plotting out my big climax at lunch and am really nervous about it. Also on my mind is the word verification "bleneiss" and how it sounds kind of like another word.

I only watch one hour of television a week and it's Lost, so can't comment on Jason or Jillian. The weather is beautiful (in Minneapolis that means three degrees above freezing and the sun is out) but we're supposed to get lots of snow tomorrow, which is cool with me too.

I'm Beth and I lurk via an RSS feed on LiveJournal.I reside in Arizona, but I'm from central California.The thing on my mind currently is surviving the day. It's barely after noon and I'm ready for bed.I hope Jason chooses me. That's my husband's name.I have no clue who Jillian is.Weather here near Phoenix is sunny and in the low 80s, very pretty, and most insidious - all the plants are blooming and spewing toxic pollen.Do I know? I don't know. It's one of those days, but I can say I enjoy your blog and the industry insights you offer.

My name is Katy and I grew up on the west coast (San Diego/Seattle) but now live near Dayton, Ohio. As for what's on my mind right now, I'm at work so that would be how to make a letter from my boss actually sound like a letter my boss would write (great practice for my fiction writing, btw). I don't watch the bachelor or the bachelorette, and for the first time I actually am feeling woefully inadequate for not doing so (usually I can muster up some sense of greater self-worth). The weather here today is actually nice, temps in the mid 50s, sunny. I, however, am stuck inside working, so no fun there.

I do very much enjoy lurking on your blog, though. I am an as-yet-unpublished writer (working on that one) and it really helps to be able to get an idea of how this whole agent/publishing thing will work once I get to that point. So, thanks for that!

I found myself blushing when I read your post... Yes, I have been lurking for a few months now, but what is really making me feel freaked out right now is that I came here to distract myself from the query letter I am drafting to send to you! I wasn't planning to reveal myself this soon, and certainly not without agonising over each sentence!

I live in England, you are the only agent I follow online - there were others but they were so negative that I stopped reading them in order to preserve this fragile dream.

Love the blog, I don't feel unworthy, patronised or stupid when you give advice - I felt that a lot elsewhere, so thank you. Now, back to this query letter...

Are you really going to read all these?I'm from a small city in Canada.I blog and write under an obscure family nick name to hide my true identity.I write about moments in my life that touch and transform me.

Lurker from Calgary, Canada who is watching it snow sideways outside her window and laughing at everyone’s comments on cold weather. Try -20 Celsius (-4 Fahrenheit for those south of the border). Brrrrr. Love the blog!

I'm Beth, and I lurk here daily -- wouldn't miss a post. I also comment occasionally. I live in Texas, and don't watch Jason or Jillian. As for the weather, it's 78 degrees and sunny today. What's on my mind? I finished my chapter and have visions of a nap in my hammock.

I wanted to be the first Kiwi from New Zealand saying hello but lost out to Dan. I'm Melinda and I write for children (what you would call middle grade? picture books and short stories). I like to have a read of your blog at least once a week and see whats happening in the US as i plan for world domination with my books (I wish). Don't know about Jason and Jillian. Weather is sunny, the cicadas (katydids?) are deafening but there's an autumnal nip in the air. Whats on my mind? Would the recession be so bad if the media wasn't allowed to report on it?

Where are you from?Right now, central PA, about 80 miles east of Pittsburgh

Anything on your mind?I should finish this milk instead of dumping it down the sink.

Who is Jason going to choose? Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette?I assume these are related. I'm lucky if I get to see an episode of "Lost" once a week. I've never watched any incarnation of "The Bachelor."

I'm from Maine and have been reading for 13 months now, never missed a post. Reading the blog, I mean. Because reading for just 13 months would be bad, considering I'm 30. Have commented maybe twice. My NBRT was about 6 hours on a Sunday. Never queried anyone else. I'll be self-publishing instead.

Just wanted to also point out that my word verification word is "forkingl." This made me laugh. I am immature.

I’m from Salt Lake City, Utah and have been reading your blog for a little over a year. My day job is a Director of Human Resources for a small software company, or as I like to say – doing all of the crap jobs in the company that no one else really wants to do.

Big time Utah Jazz fan, who I believe play the Kings this Saturday. Don’t worry Nathan—I won’t rub it in when my Jazz win.

Only thing on my mind right now is how fast the publishing industry is going to ramp-up digital publishing? And if there will come a time when some books are only created in the digitally format and forgo the traditional format.

I think Jason is going to choose Melissa, then break it off and proposes to Molly – at least that’s what my wife tells me is going to happen.

If Melissa gets dumped, I think she will be picked for the Bachelorette over Jillian.

With all of that said – I will probably be watching Chuck instead of the Bachelor next Monday.

The weather is par for the course here in Utah, and by that I mean – rainy, snowy, sunny – all occurring in the space of 30 minutes.

1) I'm from a little place called New Zealand. It's known to more people as "that place where The Lord of the Rings" was filmed, or even just as "Middle Earth". I prefer "the freckles on the butt of the world" myself.

2) I just woke up, so the mind is pretty blank at the moment. I have a list of things I need to do do, such as: - update wordpress plugins on blog - finish writing a book review - write a blog entry - actually sit down and write something related to novel #2.

3) and 4) What? I dunno.

5) It's grey and a little windy. It's supposed to be summer, but at least it's not pissing down like the weekend, when we were supposed to take the Girl Guides camping.

It seems pointless to comment after 115 have already done so, but you asked. I've only been reading for a couple months. I'm supposed to be writing more. I'm supposed to be finishing a book that may end up being my dissertation, but ever since I got an agent I've been spending too much time on agents' blogs and industry Web sites and Publishers Lunch.

You give really good help and advice, but I'd also thought I'd let you know this blog's kind of like a drug I like but shouldn't take.

I'm not a true lurker, I have commented in the past and even sent you a query. Tulsa, Oklahoma is my place of residence. The weather is scrumpdilicious: 70 and sunny. I'm currently trying not to eat (Ash Wednesday, ya know) while I try to figure out how to add mystery to a middle-grade novel. I liked Jason, but haven't really kept up with the whole thang.

I have a fondness for the Sacramento Kings (despite my general apathy for team sports). My dad grew up there and I lived there for a year when I was nine. I sang the national anthem twice with my school chorus (I was in The Sacramento Bee! Front page! Noticeable because I'm dead center with a red headband!). This was 1994-1995, during Spud Webb's glory years.

De-Lurk Day! Hee! What a fun concept. I guess I do lurk, most of the time. I hardly ever comment anywhere, but I follow numerous agent blogs, keeping my eye out for helpful writing/publishing advice. (I find a lot of it here!) I've commented here before, though...do I still count as a lurker?

Thanks for blogging; even though you sent me a rejection, I still come here every day.

Abby here, from the big HOT AZ. Yes, if it’s over 80 in February, it’s hot. Winter came too late this year for it to be warming up already.

I found your blog just over a month ago when I was procrastinating, um, I mean doing research for the next step now that my MS is almost finished. I must admit that I’ve become somewhat obsessed with your blog, and I really enjoy reading it every day.

On my mind? Right now I’m wondering why my seven-year-old can’t empty the dishwasher without making noises like she’s being murdered.

The only knowledge I have of The Bachelor is from you and the little snippets they show on The Soup. Joel McHale is hilarious.

Hi! I desperately need my scurvy cured. I'm an aspiring comedy writer in Toronto (yes, we really truly do love your President)and psyching myself up to start the query process for my first MS. I care significantly less about who gets a rose than who gets the golden ladle on Top Chef, and who gets the golden pinking shears on Project Runway Canada.

Hi Nathan!1-I've lived all over the U.S. and I'm currently in Utah. 2-On my mind currently is wondering how to figure out the response time on a partial or full from an agent that hasn't specified. Any hints? 3-I don't follow the Bachelor, so I'm going to pretend you were talking about Lost. I don't know how the got back to the island without the plane crashing!4-Kate is going to have a difficult time deciding between Jack and Sawyer... but seeing how she's been acting since Aaron "disappeared"--I think she might have bigger issues to worry about.5-It is starting to get warmer and I can't wait to go to the backyard and set up our new trampoline for the kids! :D6-Right!

Wow - I just saw how many comments were posted already. Nathan, did you realize you had so many lurkers out there?

My tidbit is that I'm from Denver and it's way warmer here than most people realize, but we're keeping it our little secret (except for the 123 lurkers that now know!) My day job has absolutely nothing to do with writing, but it's such a fun hobby! :)

Charlie Mac de-lurking in Eastern Washington State--the dry half that does not include Seattle. The sun is shining, the wind is blowing and a mega tumble weed just rolled across my yard and tried to take out a passing car.

Whats on my mind? pondering a Dallas Morning News article on how to eat on $100 a month. The first item mentioned is how to make low budget margaritas. The trick must be to drink enough margaritas to not require food...

Who is Jason? Are we predicting the victim of the next Friday the 13th movie or what?

I've never seen the Bachelorette...do I forfeit my lurking rights for admitting it?

Hi, I'm Katherine and I'm on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. Beautiful morning here! What's on my mind is breakfast, a hair appointment in a couple of hours, and then getting back into the structural edit for my third paramedic crime thriller, due out in December. Love your blog, Nathan!

I am Michelle, I am kinda a lurker - I do post occassionally. I am from Australia it is going to hit 29 degrees (celcius) today - no idea what that is in F suffice to say it is warm. So it is hot but my office is so full of air-con I will still freeze. Nothing much on my mind as I need to start work.

I’m not a lurker, but wanted to congratulate Vegas Linda Lou for being contacted by a journalist and having your upcoming book mentioned in their newspaper article! That's awesome!

I started out by self-publishing my first two novels. It got my books out there...which led to more publications, the sale of over 1,000 copies of my combined books before distribution channels shrank considerably...and I still receive over 9,000 hits to my website each month. With your stand-up comedy routine, you may have a built-in audience for your books, and that’s a wonderful thing. :)

I'm a gypsy currently living in Alabama and planning my next move because staying here 6 months is almost too long.

I write under the name Liana Brooks and have my first short story coming out in the June issue of M-Brane. I think... long story.

I don't watch TV so I have no clue who those people are. The weather is fair. And what I'm thinking about is how on Earth to get my daughter through her mountain of homework before it gets too late and I lose all my time to write.

Oh, and I'd love to go to San Fran because one of my favorite foodies blogs from there and I want to hit some of the restaurants.

Hi Nathan, I'm Melissa and I live in Evergreen, Colorado. It's 60 degrees here today, really, really wrong for February. I'm not really a lurker, I DO comment. Don't watch the Batchelor at all, I'm just a little addicted to Rock of Love w/Brett Michaels (I know, Iknow!) but hey, when an aging rocker can get twelve bimbos to fight over him? Genius! What's on my mind? All kinds of crap, none of which is important, except for the voice that tells me to stop blogging and GET TO WORK! Looking forward to meeting you at Pikes Peak Writers...

Where are you from? I've lived my entire life in Southern Illinois, starting off in a town of 600 people.

Anything on your mind? A skull, skin, hair- oh you meant am I thinking about anything right now... I'm pretty preoccupied with how close I am to completing the rough draft of my first novel as well as the status of a short story I have out on submission.

Who is Jason going to choose? Not sure... between writing and raising a toddler, I don't have much time for television.

Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette? See above.

How's the weather? The weather is horrible! Right now it's cold and wet, but knowing this time of year it could be 70 degrees tomorrow and then snowing the next. Gotta love southern Illinois...

I don't mean to be a lurker, but it tends to happen quite a bit. Love the blog though!

Wow, who knew there was a de-lurker day? I feel like I've been caught with my hand in the cookie jar or something...

I suppose it's only fair that you get to know me, since I've been following you around :) Besides, maybe you'll remember me when I come a-querying in the next few weeks *insert eye roll here*

Where are you from? Saskatchewan, Canada

Anything on your mind? I think, therefore, I am. Seriously though, I mostly wonder what I'm going to feed my 5 children, probably because they keep asking me what there is to eat.

Who is Jason going to choose? I'm going to say Melissa, but I never seem to get it right.

Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette? Well, I don't know why Chris would ask her about it for no reason. And why not? She seems really nice - and hey, us Canadian girls are pretty special (not that I'm biased or anything).

How's the weather? Let's just say that I spent 1 1/2 hours shovelling yesterday, and it's been snowing all day. But I'm not bitter.

2. I've always got a billion things on my mind. About half a billion of them are food, and the rest is normally work, study, writing and Lost.

3. I'm going with the blonde. (don't know what show it is, but don't they usually choose the blonde?)

4. Yes. Yes she will.

5. It rained half the day yesterday, today is normal again, but still jacket weather which is weird considering it's still summer here. The air is still really smoky from the bushfires that have been happening.

I'm Jeannie from Prescott, AZ (that's pronounced Preskit); not that I was born here but it helps blend in with the locals - the locals being those who have lived here longer than someone else. They like to boast about this sort of thing; gives them self importance or, at the very least, a reason to one-up you.

I've no idea who Jason is and don't care if Jillian becomes a bachelorette or any other gender choice.

The weather is lovely, a balmy 68 degrees with sunshine and a gusty wind around 30 miles an hour - typical for these high desert hills of north central Arizona.

I like reading your blog. Laraine H. turned me on to it. Good info most of the time. Enjoy the day.

Hi I'm Rachael. I think your a great guy and I love reading your blog. On my mind is my first finished novel that I'm editing and my new works in progress. Among when I'm going to be able to go write outside and whether or not it's actually going to rain today. February in Michigan and I'm expecting rain. Crazy!

I'm sitting watching the flipping snow fall in Maple Ridge, a suburb of Vancouver, BC. And I'm not happy about it. Not happy about the snow, that is, since it was balmy and all 'spring is just around the corner' last week. Well, if I'm really being honest here, I'm not too smitten with the whole Maple Ridge thing either.

My heart is all a flutter about the new season of Reaper starting. The Bachelor? They're still making that show? Aw....you Americans are so darn cute.

What's on my mind?

Just how insane am I to have agreed to inviting 12 girls to my 7year old's birthday party on Friday....at our house?? And why the heck did I give up beer for Lent? Clearly, I hadn't thought things out. This might not end well.

I love your blog. Learning lots about the industry. I enjoy your humor mixed in with great information.

Anything on your mind? I should be spending less time reading your blog and more time finishing the edits on my novel.

Who is Jason going to choose? I think Melissa and that's so unfortunate for her. Seriously, look at Jason closely when someone's talking to him, doesn't he look like a bit like he's singing The Farmer in the Dell in his head?

Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette? Oh I hope so - yay Canada!!

How's the weather? I already said I live in Canada, what do you think?

Hello Everyone - I'm a writer from Texas (one of the unwashed masses, as a commentator on this blog once labeled us - still stinging from that one!).Well, I'm with Vegas Linda Lou. I'm very tired of going the traditional route - haven't had much luck even with a proper query letter that doesn't even begin with a question. I'm going to self-publish as well. If you're going to have to promote yourself anyway, might as well get rid of the middle men (no offense, Nathan, even though you weren't interested in reading a sample). So I'm taking things into my own hands. I have a great book that's gotten really good reviews by independent parties, and dang it, I'm going to create a great marketing campaign and sell this thing!

In addition, I was reading last week's posts about why people make comments on your blog, and I'm curious. Could you take a poll to see how many of these folks are looking for an agent?? It would be interesting to know.

Hi,I live in Cedar Park Texas. Drive-by describes mebetter than lurker. I spend most of my time in the retail grocery industry. I continue to write to fullfill this nagging passion of mine.The weather, ever changing.

I'm in DC, slogging away at my government job (I help numerically-inclined people write in English). When I realized that I'd almost finished writing my first novel, I started lurking on agent blogs to learn about the process.

I find you informative and entertaining, and if I didn't already subscribe to your newsletter, I'd express my interest in doing so.

Reality TV is not my thing (UNLESS I know or tangentially know a contestant).

If I had a window, I could tell you how the weather is. I heard it was nice today...50's, maybe.

Nathan, you really think it's Molly? Why? Was it the whole tent rendezvous that makes you think that? The actual "walk of shame" the morning after was a little tacky, but very dramatic. Chris Harrison always says, "The most dramatic season in Bachelor history." Wait. Doesn’t he always say that?

Hey, I'm John from Chicago, IL. It's actually pretty nice here for today, and for now. You just never know in this city. I teach English in an inner city school, and I write at night and weekends (and sometimes lunch hour). I like this blog because I've learned a lot from it. I don't watch the Bachelor. I do, however, love Madmen, as well as Lost and Battlestar Galactica. I'm sort of annoyed with Lost right now cause they can't seem to answer any questions, but there's a galactica sized spot in my heart for Battlestar Galactica--that show has everything in it. Madmen is probably some of the most intriguing and perfect writing on the screen today. PS: Right now, I'm reading (which actually means listening becuase I get most of my reading done on the el to work what with teaching English and writing) a great book called Gang Leader for a Day by Sudhir Venkatesh. It's one of thse books where you want to read every sentence to the rest of the world.

I guess I'm not technically a lurker, since I emerged to post the other week on the "free" discussion. But I had been a lurker for quite some time before that, so it counts?

Where are you from? Canada BCAnything on your mind? A half dozen different projects/assignments.Who is Jason going to choose? Who?Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette? Who?How's the weather? Snowing! What's up with that?

Janet Reid (is she really Miss Snark?) is probably the exception that proves the rule.

Perhaps it's a case of sour grapes, but my perception is fewer and fewer men are reading books because fewer books are being written for the action thriller reader, your typical male. It's a downward, self perpetuating spirial. My guess, and yes, it's only that, is action/thriller/shoot 'em up books can't breach the gauntlet of females that dominate the business of literary agents.

I admit it's a small sample, but I attended one 'agent fest' and only one male agent was present (Dan Lazar, a rookie then, from Writers House, if memory serves) and about a zillion female authors. (this was not a bad thing since I was one of few males in the hotel lounge that night)

I'm Allison, and I live in NYC. My bio reads like JJ's (some hundredish posts ahead of me) but in reverse: I interned at S&S--but after graduating school I took a financial-type day job. Although I liked publishing, I realized that all I want to do is write. 'Til then, I guess that a "career" will pay the bills and that personal fulfillment will come from outside. Does anyone care to weigh in on this?

I'm thinking about going to a bar where they have a math bee after work. I'm very hip.

Nathan: I am a pretty new reader of this blog, and I am staggered by your time and motivation. You knowingly wrote a post that would generate hundreds of comments! In addition to all of the manuscripts you must have on your desk, and all of your paperwork. I am baffled.

I'm currently a full time student, and my novel is on its fifth draft (getting closer to finishing every day). I'm obsessed with this blog. It's helped me so much with drafting queries, agent information, et cetera.

Huntington, WV.Dan Radcliffe, the pizza I'm eating, last night's season finale of Leverage and the upcoming episode of Battlestar Galactica.The only bachelor-like shows I watch are Project Runway and Top Chef.Warming up, thank you.Nailing POV in my novel is frightening me.

1.I come to you from the mystical land of the Internet (by way of Missouri and Washington state).2.I'm polishing my novel and preparing my queries.3.(Looks up from his book) Sorry, what?4.(Shrugs and returns to his book)5.The rain is coming down so hard that I'm wondering what who is going to clean up all those buckets.6. Yeah. Totally.

I'm from Galveston, TX, where we do our best to deny having discernible minds so soon after Mardi Gras. I think that second sentence should have ended after "Jason" -- unless you want to toss "and Jillian" on the end of it. Now that I'm out from behind the woodwork, I notice it's 70 degrees here today! Yay! Knowing right is an important first step...to something. I've forgotten what.

Hi Nathan, I'm in Greenhithe, New Zealand. Been lurking for nearly a year now. What's on my mind? Head lice. My daughter brought them home from kindergarten yesterday. aargh! The weather is mild and moist.

There is a reason for my lurking in the shadows. See, when I query you, you will say, "Who is this mysterious person I've never heard of before?" You will then be so curious about me you'll go straight to requesting a full ms.That's going to happen, right?

Long-time lurker, first-time commenter. Damn Bachelor bait lured me out.From? Ashland , OregonOn your mind? Whether my agent will discontinue our contract after she reads the WIP I finished today.Who to choose? Molly, natch. Country club golf date cinched it, though he will continue to try to get at least to third base with Melissa before engagement lockdown. Jillian as Bachelorette? That was a tease to see how many people would write in for Jillian over tragic southern mother/extraterrestrial Stephanie. Exploiting a single parent and child via Bachelor has proved quite fruitful this season; I think they’re weighing their odds. The weather? Sunny, but not without angst.I know, right? Right! That trailer for the new season of The Hills *killed*

Where are you from?The internets, of course! It is a series of tubes. But not boob tubes, because that would be rude.

Anything on your mind?No, it is a blank slate, largely as my coffee hasn't kicked in yet this morning.

Who is Jason going to choose?The Argonauts!

Will Jillian be the new Bachelorette?Up until a shock announcement at the last minute reveals that she is actually a he. And not just any male, but an alien imposter sent to assess the human race as possible fodder for harvesting. Just remember folks, you heard it first here.

Of course, since I don't watch TV, or even have access to US programming, how could I possibly know? That can only make it more true!

How's the weather?Well, we just went from 40C to 25C days, I even had to break out a jacket. Oh the humanity!!!!

I know, right?I don't know how you do it! You're incredibly perceptive!

Wow, Linda Lou, kudos!Ok, I'm Luci from Portland, you know that far northern suburb of San Fran (all you Bay area folks move up here. Got a great house for you Nathan if you're interested!)I write, blog, read and occasionally comment here. Love your wit, and oh yes, all that lit agent stuff you do.Sorry not so into the Bachelor or the Hills. Bad follower. Whatever.Weather here in PDX in Feb? Sunny, duh. :)

Oops! Thought I was safely ensconced behind my open door at Ohope Beach, New Zealand, where I am peeking through the gapped hinges. My alternate universe is Seattle, WA. In both places I have wondered if it was worth drumming up considerable angst to compose a query letter regarding my Tween novel for Nate the Great. I'm not sure I feel the love for this genre.

I don't know if I've commented before. I'm Samantha, I've completed one novel that's on time-out for having serious editing issues, and am 50 pages into another that will be a hopeful for that delacorte contest thingy...or an agent...one day...

I'm from South Carolina by way of Idaho by way of New Mexico By way of Texas by way of Belgium by way of Alaska by way of Illinois and Missouri by way of Germany. I don't stay put. May move to France in 3 years, which will complicate the whole agent-getting thing.

And thanks to you, Natalie, for the ninja idea. I stole it for my son's eigth birthday party. It may have been a bigger hit than his fifth when we built and launched model rockets.

Also, congratulations to you, Vegas Linda Lou.

I suppose I should mention I'm from Cape Breton Island (look to the far east of the west and turn way north). I think you'd like it here, Eric Hare: our road signs are in Gaelic. Come in early October and the Celtic Colours celebration will give you a taste of just about everything Celtic.

Scott (the Scott trying to get up early to write), the zombie effect doesn't last forever: you'll get used to it before too long.

Dan Radke, I'm trying to avoid The Watchmen, please don't mention them again or I'll have to miss a few posts here and read it before my time.

Ulysses, if you do find happiness through eating raw cocoa beans could you please post the quantity.

Scotty, I wish you weren't horror, because I like your voice and would squeeze you onto my reading list, but I'm afraid you'd give me nightmares.

Mira, you're a delight.

Reason Reanimator, I've been there.

Ink, I was amused by your cult comment and often look for your comments, among others. I would love to visit your bookstore.

Ugly Deaf Muslim Punk Gurl!, my repressed punk has great awe and respect for you and a piqued curiosity toward your writing.

Oh, and the weather has been brilliant, by the way: lots of snow; the river froze for skating; plenty of high pressure nights so the sky's been spectacular and the air like diamond dust to walk through; just enough low pressure days to curl up and read by the fire (or space heater)....

And finally, Mr. Bransford, while I'm not surprised at your choice of Oatmeal Raisin in a cookie, I'd like to share a recipe with you. It is suppertime here and I've been running up and down the stairs preparing dinner between notes in this comment so food is on my mind, and you've haven't mentioned monkeys in awhile, so here's Funky Chunky Chocolate Monkeys (a vegan chocolate chip cookie with a banana bread twist -- it's my own, and you should try it, Furious D, in an attempt to wean yourself off cheesecake).

Mix dry. Mix wet. Combine wet and dry and mix until you get a consistency similar to bread dough (add the +water 1 tbsp at a time until you do: the quantity of water will be determined by how wet your bananas were). Stir in chunks. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto a lightly greased cookie sheet and bake in a 350 degree oven for about 12 minutes or until the cookies are golden on top.

(Note: These cookies taste best cold, and even better the next day and can be prepared very quickly so you can get back to reading or writing.)

Thanks for the fun, informative blog. And "Hello" Slovenia and New Zealand, and any other fantastic countries who have come out of lurking while I've been cooking and commenting. Ah, I feel so well-travelled right now. No wait, I'm in the United States of America at this moment: I mean "well-traveled".

Sorry, there are no televisions in Never Never Land which makes it impossible to comment on your questions about imaginary people living in a little box.

The weather is always perfect in Never Never Land.

From time to time, I lurk in this blog to gain insight about the publishing world. Until time be right, I will tell my stories and adventures to the creatures who dare to cross over the line at the edge of Never Never Land. They are quite friendly.

Hi, I'm David Taylor from outside Atlanta. Just finished writing my first novel at the end of December and stumbled upon this great blog shortly thereafter, but haven't commented, thus making me a lurker.

As someone new to writing and the world of publishing, this blog has been a great source of ideas.

I like being invisible, but since you asked nicely and I’m greatful for your “How to Write a Nonfiction Book Proposal” piece, I’ll de-lurk. I’m Diana. I don’t watch the Bachelor, but won’t judge you (much) because your blog is great and you love Mad Men. I can’t discuss the weather because I live in Toronto, and thinking about the weather tends to send one running for pharmaceuticals.

Anything on your mind? My first e-book coming out on Friday is on my mind. I'm very excited and hope it leads to bigger things. (www.christinedepetrillo.blogspot.com)

Not a Bachelor fan. I watch Survivor and Hell's Kitchen but even those are getting old. I think reality TV has run its course. Bring back the shows that had...what did we used to call it?...Oh, yeah...STORIES!!

How's the weather? In RI, hints of spring are about for those that can stop complaining about what a "long winter" it's been for two minutes. Go to Florida if you can't handle it. Jeez!

I'm not a lurker, although I've mostly lurked the last few months after being a frequent poster for a while. No reason. Just cuzz.

But I had to pop up and say that I not only know where Slovenia is, I've been there. Spent a day in Maribor when I lived in Graz, Austria, back when Slovenia was still part of Yugoslavia and it was kind of an adventure to get there, at least for a 20-year-old American.

I'm from Birmingham, Alabama where, as a boy, my dad would drive me over the top of Double Oak mountain. We'd stop at the rest area at the very peak, pop a quarter in the telescope, open our eyes as wide as we could and try to see if the statue of Vulcan, three miles south, was glowing red or green.

If it was red, it meant there'd been some terrible accident. Someone had flipped their Rambler down the side of Iron mountain or driven their Pinto under a tanker truck. My dad would bundle us back into the car and creep down the two lane highway on the other side of Double Oak with the radio off.

If it was green, it meant no one had died. Our car would shoot out of the rest area and speed down the moutain with Roger Miller blaring and my dad singing "Trailers for sale or rent, rooms to let, 50 cent . . ."

I'm also from Florida, where I grew up on two lakes–one so perfectly round they used it for speedboat races and one lost and forgotten behind pine hammocks and a thousand square miles of orange blossoms, Little Lake Desire.

My grandfather retired on that lake. Every morning he'd walk out with a ball of instant oatmeal in his hands, walk down to the edge of the lake with a Pall Mall dangling off his withered old lips. He'd walk right out into the lake up to his hips and toss the oatmeal in. The shiners would hit it like piranha on a dead pig. At some point in the frenzy a three pound large mouth bass would shot through the roiling shiners and strike which would thrill my grandfather to no end.

I'm also from California, where I spent a year illegally driving L.A. Times bundles out to Needles and Barstow through the desert at 1 in the morning when nothing stirred except great silent terrifying barn owls and Navy jets.

Lately I'm from Chicago where men die alone in the bitter cold on the sidewalk in front of their own house, stretched out in their Macks and Irish driver caps, the stark image of their neighbor obliviously pushing their snowblower away down the sidewalk Escher-stretched over their cornea as their fingers grip the shovel handle tighter and tighter, the bomb in their chest rendering them mute.

And I'm thinking this might be it. This might be just about as close as I get to having my name spined out at Barnes. And I'm thinking that as Facebook and Blogtalk dig their nails into the attention of all the people I'm trying to talk to, maybe I ought to just give up on paper, tables of contents, and carefully arranged chapters and just upload my head as it happens, wherever I happen to land, tell stories in bits and pieces, in pokes and platitudes, til it would take a some dedicated monkish internet sleuth ten thousand years to find it all and see what happened.

I guess I'm technically a lurker. I've commented a couple of times. I'm Nicole and I'm from Williamsburg, Virginia. For now. This blog entertains me and allows me to procrastinate, so I pretty much love it. Oh, and not having to worry about scurvy is always a plus.

Almost 200 comments...writers are the worst procrastinators in the world. "All you all, get back to work!" I'm from Pittsburgh, we don't talk about the weather it makes people cry.I never thought of Jason as being that 'choosey,' doesn't he just chainsaw everybody?Paddy

You have to Lurk before you Leap. Thanks for the invitation! I'm Rebecca Rosenberg from Sonoma California. I live on a lavender farm. We drink wine and smell lavender. Yes it IS heaven. By day I design lavender products, by night I write an historical novel about the infamous Baby Doe Tabor who lived in Colorado 1878-1935. Infamous because she was heart-stopping gorgeous and worked along side men in the gold mine when other women were still running church bazaars. She falls in love with the legendary Silver King, Horace Tabor, albeit he was 25 years older than her and already married. That does not stop them living from happily ever after (he becomes Lt. Governor, then a senator) until the President demonetizes silver, rendering it worthless. Overnight they lose everything… except one silver mine. On Horace Tabor’s deathbed he admonishes Baby Doe to “hang on to the Matchless Mine. It will make millions again.” Victorian society is sure the beautiful widow will find millionaire no. 2. She disappoints them, choosing instead to live, destitute, in the mine for 25 years until she freezes to death.

I have been obsessed with this story since I was 10, as a girl growing up in Colorado… I am excited to be almost finished, and I started looking for a Literary Agent for Historical fiction. I have learned so much from Lurking! Who knew? Thank you Nathan for your generous insights.

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